Bonneval-sur-Arc
A postcard-perfect alpine village, Bonneval-sur-Arc is one of France's most beautiful, offering stunning scenery and authentic charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Bonneval-sur-Arc
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A postcard-perfect alpine village, Bonneval-sur-Arc is one of France's most beautiful, offering stunning scenery and authentic charm.
"This is the most beautiful mountain village in France!"
🚗 Scenic Road Trip
Drive the Iseran Pass for incredible views; check opening dates!
⛷️ Secret Powder Stash
Discover uncrowded slopes and fresh snow, a local favorite.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Village Itself
Bonneval-sur-Arc
Wander through one of France's most beautiful villages, with its authentic stone architecture and slate roofs.

Glacier de la Haute Maurienne
Near Bonneval-sur-Arc
Trek or ski with breathtaking views of the imposing glaciers, a highlight for outdoor enthusiasts.

Iseran Pass Views
Col de l'Iseran
Experience panoramic alpine vistas from one of Europe's highest paved mountain passes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Alpine Charm
Seasonal Access & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Road Trip
Drive the Iseran Pass for incredible views; check opening dates!
⛷️ Secret Powder Stash
Discover uncrowded slopes and fresh snow, a local favorite.
🚶♂️ Village Charm
Explore the authentic stone buildings and lauze roofs.
🥖 Local Delights
Don't miss the local bakery and Beaufort cheese cooperative.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Road Trip
Drive the Iseran Pass for incredible views; check opening dates!
⛷️ Secret Powder Stash
Discover uncrowded slopes and fresh snow, a local favorite.
🚶♂️ Village Charm
Explore the authentic stone buildings and lauze roofs.
🥖 Local Delights
Don't miss the local bakery and Beaufort cheese cooperative.
🦅 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for bearded vultures and ibex in the mountains.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bonneval-sur-Arc for its breathtaking beauty, authentic alpine charm, and excellent skiing conditions. The village's well-preserved architecture and stunning natural surroundings are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some find the resort can be very busy during peak ski season.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bonneval-sur-Arc is accessible by car, with the scenic Iseran Pass connecting it to Val d'Isère (typically open June-October).
Year-round buses run from Modane TGV station to Haute Maurienne Vanoise, including Bonneval-sur-Arc. For a truly memorable journey, consider cycling over the Iseran Pass.The road to Bonneval-sur-Arc is open in winter for ski access, but the Iseran Pass itself is closed. Access is typically via the Maurienne valley. Travelers have noted the road reopening in the afternoon after snowfalls.
For skiing, driving is common, but buses from Modane TGV station are a convenient option. Many visitors enjoy the scenic drive, especially when the Iseran Pass is open.
Yes, public transport is available. Buses connect Modane TGV station to Bonneval-sur-Arc year-round, making it accessible without a car.
The drive can be winding, especially on mountain roads. In winter, conditions can be challenging due to snow. It's advisable to check weather and road conditions, especially if driving during the colder months.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit the village of Bonneval-sur-Arc itself. It's a public area to explore and enjoy its charm.
Yes, if you plan to ski or use the ski lifts, you will need to purchase a ski pass for the Bonneval-sur-Arc ski area.
Opening hours for the ski resort vary depending on the season and snow conditions. It's best to check the official Bonneval-sur-Arc ski resort website for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! Bonneval-sur-Arc is beautiful in the summer, offering hiking, cycling, and stunning alpine scenery. The Iseran Pass is typically open during this time.
Yes, there is a tourist office in Bonneval-sur-Arc that can provide information on activities, accommodation, and local attractions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Explore the village's traditional architecture,
hike or ski with glacier views, and enjoy the panoramic vistas from the Iseran Pass. Wildlife spotting, including bearded vultures and ibex, is also a highlight.Yes, Bonneval-sur-Arc is an excellent destination for hiking, with trails leading to refuges like Les Evettes and offering stunning mountain and glacier views.
Summer activities include hiking, mountain biking, road cycling over the Iseran Pass, and enjoying the alpine landscapes. The village itself is a pleasure to explore.
Yes, the surrounding mountains are home to wildlife such as bearded vultures and ibex, offering exciting opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
Bonneval-sur-Arc is situated at an altitude of 1850 meters, making it one of the highest villages in the French Alps.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the charming stone chalets and lauze roofs of the village,
the dramatic glacial landscapes, and the sweeping panoramas from the Iseran Pass. Drone shots offer unique perspectives of the valley.Absolutely. The combination of traditional architecture, rugged mountains, and glaciers provides endless opportunities for stunning landscape photography year-round.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, ideal for capturing the village and mountain scenery. Summer mornings provide clear skies.
Drone usage is generally permitted in open areas, but always check local regulations and respect privacy. Drone footage can capture the scale of the valley and glaciers.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions or capturing the vastness of the scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During winter, the ski resort caters to families with dedicated beginner areas and ski schools. The slower pace of life in Bonneval-sur-Arc compared to larger resorts can make it a more relaxed experience for parents. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and potentially more affordable family accommodation options.
🚴 Cyclists and Road Trippers
For those arriving by car, the journey through the Maurienne valley and over the Iseran Pass is a spectacular road trip in itself. The village's picturesque setting makes it an ideal stopover point. Remember to check the seasonal opening of the Iseran Pass, as it's typically closed during winter months due to snow.
hikers and Nature Lovers
Consider packing layers as mountain weather can change rapidly. The Refuge des Evettes is a popular destination for hikers, offering a rustic mountain experience and incredible views. The sheer scale of the landscape and the pristine natural environment make Bonneval-sur-Arc a must-visit for anyone seeking an immersive mountain experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Heritage of Bonneval-sur-Arc
This commitment to preserving its heritage is evident in the village's classification as a 'Plus Beau Village de France' (Most Beautiful Village of France). This designation highlights its exceptional charm and the efforts made to maintain its unique character. The village's layout and buildings are designed to withstand heavy snowfall and strong winds, with thick stone walls and steeply pitched roofs to shed snow. The presence of a local bakery and a cooperative selling Beaufort cheese further enhances the authentic Savoyard experience.
For visitors, exploring Bonneval-sur-Arc is an experience in itself. The visual appeal of the stone and lauze, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Vanoise National Park, makes it a photographer's dream. Whether you're visiting in the summer with its green pastures or in the winter blanketed in snow, the village's architectural integrity remains its most captivating feature.
Adventure in the Vanoise National Park
In summer, the park is a haven for hikers, with trails leading to picturesque mountain refuges like the Refuge des Evettes and the serene Lacs des Pareis. These routes offer not only spectacular scenery but also chances to encounter local wildlife. Travelers have reported seeing ibex and even bearded vultures in their natural habitat, adding an element of wild discovery to their adventures. The high-altitude environment means that even in summer, you can experience a profound sense of wilderness and tranquility.
During the winter months, Bonneval-sur-Arc transforms into a premier ski resort. It's known for its excellent snow conditions and is considered a 'secret stash' by some skiers for its abundant fresh powder and fewer crowds compared to larger resorts. The ski area offers a variety of slopes suitable for different skill levels, all set against the magnificent backdrop of the Vanoise Alps. Whether you're seeking challenging treks or pristine ski runs, the Vanoise National Park surrounding Bonneval-sur-Arc provides an unforgettable alpine experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit